Chisinau, for most of its history, was an idyllic provincial town with very rare significant events and a sleepy atmosphere. But in 1820 something happened that put Chisinau on the map, at least on the map of Alexander’s Pushkin life, because he was sentenced to a 3-year exile to Chisinau.
The Russian poet was exiled for his sarcastic poems about the government, and this trip and his later residence in Chisinau not only became his first trip outside of the core of Russia, it also gave him a lot of impressions, which led to a boom of creativity and numerous traces in his poems, the most evident being “The gypsies”.
This museum is dedicated to this 3-year period of Pushkin’s life. It's located in a house where the poet lived some of his time in exile. But in fact, it is also the last remaining example of “old Chisinau”, and for me it is the only place where you can still feel the breath of history, as in many other corners of Chisinau, old buildings are neglected and demolished, but this house and court still resist, despite the ugly blocks surrounding it.
It is also a special place for me, as I graduated Chisinau’s Pushkin lyceum and it is a tradition that all pupils have their initiation ceremony held here.
Find your way with 87 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
"Marlene Bar" in Chisinau might not even have the best cocktails in town (although I like them), but the atmosphere of this European-style bar is worth it!
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"Cărturești Books" in Chisinau has everything from books, posters, board games, magnets... I esp. like the reading area where you can sit with a book.
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"Fuior Restaurant" in Chișinău is all about the package. They bring you a Michelin-Star restaurant experience to Moldovan flavors. Try the black dumplings!
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"Madam Wong Restaurant" in Chișinău makes the best Asian food in town, easily! My favorites include the Tom Yum, the Spinach Soup & the Duck Spring Roll...
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If there's one place you need to check into after you arrive at Chișinău, it's "Wine Shop Pușkin St." Expect to find great prices for simply amazing wines!
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"Yoga Surya" in Chisinau is run by Igor. He speaks Romanian and a little English. He's very helpful, friendly and the prices are very reasonable!
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"Valea Morilor Park" in the heart of Chisinau is a great recreational spot for a hot summer day. Half the city is here but you'll find your quiet spot!
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"Istanbul Bazaar" in Chisinau is a Turkish market for all your baklava, lokum and Turkish coffee needs!
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"Buiucani District" in Chisinau is the only part of the city were old village houses and churches still exist. I like it because I've lived here forever...
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"Chisinau Hotel" really has changed very little from soviet times. You don't have to stay, just ask to have a look around the rooms...
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Chisinau's main "Train Station" is a must-see spot -- I always try to pass through it with my tours. The large soviet square is also worth looking at...
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"La Izvor" in Chisinau is one of the most beautiful but still underestimated green areas in the city. You can even see people swimming in the lake here...
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